Which Routes to Take to Climb Kilimanjaro?

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest point in Africa, located in Tanzania. There are several routes to reach its summit, each offering a unique experience. Here is an overview of the different routes!

Marangu Route

This route is the most popular and most frequented. It is called the “Coca-Cola route” due to the presence of many huts along the path that offer soft drinks. It is also the only route that offers accommodation in huts, making it more comfortable for hikers who don’t wish to camp.

Machame Route

This route is one of the most beautiful and picturesque. It offers breathtaking views of Mount Meru and traverses a variety of landscapes, including forests, alpine plateaus, and glaciers. It is also a popular route for camping enthusiasts.

Lemosho Route

This route is similar to the Machame route in terms of landscapes and difficulty, but it is less frequented, offering a more isolated experience. It also offers better chances of spotting local wildlife, such as elephants, buffaloes, and primates.

Rongai Route

Rongai is less frequented than the Marangu route but also less picturesque than the Machame and Lemosho routes. It mainly crosses arid areas and is considered the easiest route to reach the summit.

Umbwe Route

This route is the shortest and most difficult of Kilimanjaro’s routes; we recommend it only for experienced hikers. It goes through dense forest before reaching steep cliffs, glaciers, and rocky peaks.

Each route has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of route depends on each person's preference and hiking level. It is important to consider the duration, difficulty, altitude, and beauty of the landscapes when choosing which route to take.

Discover our stay ideas for exploring Tanzania and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro:

• Machame Route
• 11-day Safari in Southern Tanzania
• 7-day Climb on the Machame Route to Mount Kilimanjaro

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